Armed Police Deployed at Belgium‘s Government Buildings After Strychnine-Laced Letters Found
Brussels, Belgium – Belgian authorities have heightened security at government buildings after letters laced with a lethal poison were found. The letters, sent in November, contained strychnine, a rodenticide that can be deadly if ingested, and has caused skin irritation on contact.
Three letters were sent to Belgian government institutions, targeting the office of Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and the Ministries of the Interior and Security. An employee of De Croo was injured after handling one of the letters, suffering burns on their hands. Another person at the Ministry of Security also came into contact with the substance and was placed in quarantine as a precaution.
Toxicological tests confirmed the presence of strychnine in the letters. This colorless, odorless powder is commonly used in rat poison and can cause severe symptoms and even death if ingested. Skin contact can lead to irritation.
This latest incident follows an earlier incident at De Croo’s office this week, where a man armed with a knife was apprehended by police. He had threatened officers and attempted to gain access to the building.
Authorities are currently investigating the matter, but no arrests have been made yet. The increased police presence is a preventive measure to ensure the safety of government officials and staff.
